OSF joins Streator Fire Department in "Vial of Life" initiative

10/26/2016 - Streator, Illinois

It’s a simple idea, a postcard listing all of your important medical information that can be easily accessed by first responders. Called “Vial of Life,” the program is used in communities across the country and now it’s coming to Streator.

“On half of our medical emergency calls we have little or no information on the patient,” says Streator Fire Chief Gary Bird. “This initiative will save lives,” he adds.

The “vial” is a plastic bottle in which a patient’s extensive medical history is kept. The bottle is then placed in the patient’s refrigerator where any emergency responder can easily find it.

E.J. McKernan donated 1,000 bottles for the program, OSF Center for Health – Streator helped pay for the stickers and forms, while Design and Signs by Anderson donated the printing.

The collective efforts means Streator residents can get a free “Vial of Life” by request or they can pick one up at an open house at the Streator Fire Department, 108 N. Wasson St., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 5.

“Our EMTs and fire crews will also distribute the vials when on emergency calls,” says Chief Bird.